Quality Assurance for BIM Models

Do you ever wonder how detailed infrastructures are built without any flaws? Or how do individuals build intricate environments in months only? Then allow us to share that it’s the Building Information Modelling (BIM) that facilitates the processes during a construction project. But even with a compact and foolproof system as BIM is, stakeholders must ensure that what they are constructing will be perfect. That’s where the process of BIM Quality Control starts. This process makes sure that all project teams get to enjoy their desired results without having to face any disruptions and financial losses.

Quality Assurance in BIM Models:

The process of Quality Assurance (QA) in construction projects is done for each system to make sure that BIM modeling is free of errors. When QA has been done to inspect a 3D model, the stakeholders can move forward after eliminating clashes and inconsistencies. Let us share that removing errors from a built structure can be extremely costly and not recommended. But with the help of QA insights, relevant teams can immediately make the models error-free while also providing a coordinated system to work on. 

The term Quality Assurance (QA) is often confused with Quality Control (QC). In this part of our blog, we would like to highlight a couple of differences between QA and QC for a better understanding of the two terms. 

Quality Assurance (BIM Models)	Quality Control (BIM Models)
Focuses on the processes that are worked on to ensure that a specific BIM model will meet the predetermined project’s requirements.	Focuses mainly on inspecting the BIM models to efficiently and proactively identify clashes and errors that can impact the progress of a construction project.
Includes the establishment of preparing and implementing standards, guidelines, and best BIM modeling practices to ensure the successful completion of the project.	Includes regular checks and frequent verifications to ensure that BIM modeling is up to date and meets a specific project’s requirements.
Works to implement quality management throughout the lifecycle of a project which can ensure that the system is being monitored and improved to meet the project’s requirements.	Involves manual and automated inspections including clash detection and resolution, data verification, and other relevant compliance checks.

Now that we have discussed the differences between QA and QC, we would like to share their benefits. Continue reading the blog so that you can make informed decisions for your upcoming personal and commercial construction projects.

Quality Management in the Construction Process

The process of Quality Management in construction typically involves systematic controlling to make sure that all construction aspects meet the standards that were initially established. Quality Management covers various areas such as the execution and activity monitoring throughout a project’s lifecycle. This is to ensure that the materials and the procedures are of high quality. Quality management helps ensure that the project meets the client’s expectations and also complies with the regulatory standards to avoid rework, etc.

Benefits of Quality Assurance and Quality Control for BIM Models:

Several benefits are associated with the processes of BIM Quality Assurance and BIM Quality Control such as:

1. Accurate BIM Data

When stakeholders have access to accurate data, they know that they are on the right track. And that’s one of the benefits of QA and QC in BIM models that they offer enhanced data accuracy. This practice also helps the stakeholders minimize all sorts of errors even before the construction process begins.

2. Efficient Risk Reduction

Speaking of minimizing errors, we must mention that with BIM QA and QC, the stakeholders can mitigate possible risks and inaccuracies. This means the project teams can avert high-budgeted errors while they are in the planning phase.

3. Cost-Effectiveness

Everybody loves cost-effective BIM solutions – no matter what they are working on. And quite frankly speaking, that’s the only way to go about it. Having said that QA and QC in BIM can also help reduce/eliminate rework delays during the construction phase. That happens when the stakeholders are actively revisiting the models and rectifying errors that can be problematic.

4. Improved Communication

While QA and QC are responsible for eliminating errors and risk reduction, these processes also foster improved communication within teams. When the stakeholders are almost always in contact with each other, they can effectively tally the data that they are working on. This ensures that each team has accurate data which lets them progress towards project completion.

5. Enhanced Project Reliability

We understand how important project reliability is for all the stakeholders. Incidentally, QA and QC also offer enhanced project reliability for everyone. With BIM QA and QC, the stakeholders can ensure that the BIM models are in harmony with the project requirements.

6. Compliance With Industry Standards

No matter how foolproof your planning is, if your project doesn’t comply with the industry standards and regulations, then you won’t get your desired results. The good thing is that BIM QA and QC ensure compliance with industry standards & regulations. In addition, these processes also work for a smooth journey towards project completion.

7. Customized Solutions for Every Project

The processes of BIM QA and QC also allow the customization of BIM models to meet specific project requirements. Through these processes, stakeholders can fully optimize each element concerning construction for efficient project delivery.

8. On-going Improvements

As building methods transform, it becomes necessary to keep improving them for their users and other project teams. With QA and QC in BIM models, the stakeholders can enjoy continuous improvement. These processes also allow the teams to access past data, learn from it, and implement the learnings in future projects.

The ISO standard as a part of Quality Assurance

The ISO standard is crucial for Quality Assurance as it provides the stakeholders with a globally recognized framework. This ensures that quality is maintained across various industries which also includes construction. ISO 9001 is the commonly used standard for Quality Management Systems also known as QMS.

Key Elements of ISO Standards in Quality Assurance

ISO Standards such as ISO 9001 allow for working through a process-oriented approach. This enables the stakeholders to achieve all their business goals effectively. These practices help everyone document and manage the project processes more efficiently. Incorporating, ISO Standards also supports continuous improvement throughout a project’s lifecycle.

Another key element of ISO Standards is that it enables the stakeholders to earn customer satisfaction. By aligning the project requirements with that of the client’s expectations, everyone can ensure that the deliverables meet all the quality standards. Another aspect of ISO Standards is that it helps achieve certification which is also a requirement in most construction projects. Through certification, the stakeholders can comply with the standards of effective project management. 

Before we conclude the blog, allow us to mention that at DDC Solutions, our goal is client satisfaction. We make the most of BIM tools and incorporate QA and QC into our models. This ensures that you are only getting what you were promised. Our experts are always ready to guide you through the complexities of BIM so Get in Touch with us today!